Tipp give full backing to Ryan

Tipperary County Board have moved to confirm that Michael Ryan's position as senior hurling manager is not up for discussion.

Having led the Premier County to All-Ireland glory in 2016 - his first season at the helm - Ryan still has two years to run on the three-year extension he received last September. But a disappointing Tipp side exited the new-look Munster SHC at the round-robin stage, leading to suggestions that the manager might be replaced.

However, today's statement has ended the debate:

"In respect to recent queries, the Management Committee of Tipperary GAA County Board wishes to reiterate that following Tipperary's exit from this year's senior hurling championship, the position of the Tipperary management team is not the subject of any discussion or change.

"The management team was appointed last September for a three-year term and have the full backing and support of the Co. Management Committee.

"Comments made by any individual(s), contrary to the above, do not represent the views of the Co. Management Committee and are therefore not to be associated with the Committee or Co. Board Officers in any way.